Sincere fulfilment occurs at the 'make or break' point. Seeking depth over long periods of time (decades perhaps) in one's craft whatever it may be, will demand certain attributes. The beauty here is that these attributes are respected and recognised by all who try to delve deeper into their craft, whether it be gardening, investing, performing, sport or anything.
'The Living Philosophy' has helped me articulate this concept better as I delve deeper in my journey as a qualified secondary teacher, as a student of martial arts and writing. In his podcast 'ekstasis and catharsis', Cussens (The Living Philosophy) explores Dante's 'Into the Depths of Hell'. With a more biblical angle, he describes Dante's catharsis as going beyond/through hell rather than "going the other way". This can be applied to all aspects of day to day life. At the point where we are boiling with uncontrollable emotions, about to give up and under high pressure, we are very close to achieving catharsis, the "I get it" indescribable feeling of understanding and fulfilment. We often hear the quote, "diamonds are made from pressure," and I believe this is another way of articulating the same principle.
With long term relationships, with people you've known for life or at least, for a very long time such as parents, siblings, close friends or partners... There may be moments which make you lose composure. Frustration, anger, confusion, sadness, disappointment or whatever emotional byproduct you may experience from a long term relationship, these moments are parallel to the above "boiling point". During these moments of turbulence, we are put to the test whether we can "make or break", "form a diamond under pressure," "go beyond/through Hell rather than going the other way." We are demanded to stay calm in these moments and to keep persevering. Over time, an amalgamation of these moments will create a beautiful, authentic and powerful relationship. And over time, I believe it will create the most sincere, resilient version of yourself.
Argument with someone. Relationships
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